Match Report: FC Osaka vs FC Imabari
J2/J3 100 Year Vision League | 9 May 2026, 13:00

FC Imabari came from behind to defeat FC Osaka 2-1 in an entertaining J2/J3 100 Year Vision League clash on Saturday. The visitors showed character after conceding early, equalising before half‑time and then scoring a winner early in the second half to secure a valuable three points on the road.

Match Overview

FC Osaka started brightly and took the lead inside the first 15 minutes, but FC Imabari grew into the game as the first half progressed. A well‑taken equaliser just before the break shifted the momentum, and Imabari came out firing in the second half. Osaka pushed for an equaliser but could not find a way past a resolute Imabari defence.

Key Moments

• 14th minute – FC Osaka striker Yuki Saito opened the scoring with a composed finish after a counter‑attack.
• 41st minute – FC Imabari equalised through midfielder Takuya Ishikawa, who fired home from the edge of the box.
• 56th minute – Imabari’s winger Shota Kondo scored the winner, cutting inside and curling a shot into the far corner.
• 74th minute – Osaka had a goal disallowed for a foul in the build‑up, leaving the home side frustrated.

Tactical Story

FC Osaka set up in an attacking 4‑3‑3, pressing high to force turnovers. However, FC Imabari’s midfield trio in a 4‑1‑4‑1 shape gradually took control, particularly after the equaliser. Imabari’s full‑backs pushed forward to provide width, while Osaka’s defensive line struggled to track runners from deep. The visitors’ second goal came from a quick transitional move that caught Osaka off balance.

Standout Players

• Shota Kondo (Imabari) – Scored the winner and was a constant threat on the right wing.
• Takuya Ishikawa (Imabari) – Scored the crucial equaliser and worked tirelessly in midfield.
• Yuki Saito (Osaka) – Scored his team’s only goal and was Osake’s most dangerous player.

Season Impact

FC Imabari’s victory lifts them into mid‑table, while FC Osaka drop into the bottom half. The result ends Osaka’s three‑match unbeaten run and highlights their defensive vulnerabilities. Imabari will look to build on this win in their upcoming home fixtures.